I offer a wide range of hair services, including haircuts, color, highlights, treatments, and styling. Whether you want a simple trim or a complete hair makeover, I have the skills and expertise to help you achieve your desired look.
At Hair by Gary,I am committed to providing my clients with the highest level of service and quality. I use only the best hair products and techniques to ensure that you are completely satisfied with your experience and results.
How long have you been running Hair by Gary?
I’ve been running Hair by Gary from my home in Havelock Road for 25 years.
Style and fashion have always been my passions - in fact probably part of my very essence! Hairdressing has allowed me to combine these passions and has given me a wonderfully fulfilling career.
I started, at the age of 15, on the shop floor at Pointers salon,
Western Road, progressing quickly to become a stylist. After expanding my repertoire at multiple independent salons in Brighton, I spent 10 years as a senior stylist at the Green House salon in the Imperial Arcade.
In 2000 I decided to start my own business, working from home. I felt I could give my clients a more personalised service at lower prices.
A loyal client base moved with me – I have clients who have been coming for 30 years and have clients who travel from London and France.
I have new clients – many coming by the recommendations of my existing clients.
What services do you offer?
I offer styling, colouring, consultations and regular blow dries. I have client that come weekly or twice weekly for blow dries.
What is the most popular hairstyle at the moment?
Clients are asking for textured and geometric bobs. Also, urchin cuts are popular, and highlights are bolder with slicing and texture.
We hear you featured prominently on Brighton’s gay scene in the 1980s. Tell us more about that……
I am a non-binary gay man and so my
life has mirrored the turbulent path of the LGBTQ+ community in Britain.
I hold 2 identities within me – Gary and my alter ego -Grace. Grace is flamboyant, assertive and exudes style! She certainly wouldn’t stand for any of the homophobic bullying I experienced as a child.
In the Brighton gay scene, I could identify fully as Grace.
The scene was very much underground in the late 70s and 80s – clubs were members only and you would have to knock on the door to be ushered in. The 42 club was one – a real speakeasy above the Brighton rock shop on the seafront. At the Curtain Club I remember a police raid when we were all lined up to show proof of membership.
As the climate improved, I starred, as Grace, in fly on the wall documentaries, have been a judge for the Alternative Miss Brighton and was regularly seen competing at the Malibu disco dancing competitions. Over the years things have certainly improved but there is still a long way to go…….
What do you do to relax?
My partner and I still love to visit in the bars and clubs of Kemptown- bumping into old friends along the way!